According to Reed, the thefts occurred just before 4:30 p.m. Sept. 12.

Reed said that the accused stole 67 items valued at a total of $3,736 from the Main Street store. They were observed on video surveillance by Walmart loss prevention associates and later identified by law enforcement.

Reed said that Presque Isle police joined with the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency, Maine State Police, Machias police and the Indian Township Police Department to execute two search warrants on Wednesday morning. The warrants were executed at the homes of Robert Socobasin and Mary Sockabasin. Rhonda Sabattus was arrested later that afternoon after turning herself in to police.

Presque Isle officers reportedly seized more than $2,000 in stolen Walmart property, illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia. Officers also allegedly learned that all three suspects had been involved in thefts against Walmart and Hannaford grocery stores throughout Aroostook, Penobscot, Hancock and Washington counties.

The investigation led the combined agencies to more than a dozen homes of individuals who allegedly purchased stolen property from the suspects.

All three suspects were charged with felony Class C theft and released on $5,000 unsecured bail. They are scheduled to appear in Aroostook County Superior Court on March 17, 2011.

Reed led the investigation with the assistance of Presque Isle police Sgt. Mark Barnes.